MSc by Research Student

Course start: October 2017

Supervisor: Richard Moss
Supervisor 2: Dr Daniel Robbins
Supervisor 3: Dr John McCarthy

Working thesis title

To investigate the acute impact of rugby union scrums on the cervical spine position via ultrasonography.

Abstract

The scrum has received substantial attention over the years with regard to neck and back injury, from, hyper flexion with or without rotation, or high axial compressive neck forces combined with a bending moment and/or shear force. When players are engaged in scrums, they are pushing against one and other for possession of the ball. A scrum that is performed correctly requires the head, neck and torso to be aligned to limit the risk of injury. However in some causes this alignment is not achieved and this is where the risk of injury arises

This study proposes to look into the acute effect of scrums on rugby player’s cervical spine, to see if any changes can be implemented to create a safer game and environment for players.

About me

I graduated in July 2017 from the university of Bedfordshire with degree in sports therapy. Following this I started my MSc by research in October 2017. In my spare time I am usually found pitchside at Cambridge university rugby club, or treating clients from my home clinic.

Contact information

E: lauren.womack@study.beds.ac.uk